Katniss’s life has changed dramatically in some ways. For one thing, she now leads the privileged life of a winner. She has her own house, and everything provided to her. She does not have to hunt to keep her family from starving. However, her newfound wealth creates a rift between her and Gale. She continues to hunt to provide for his family while he works in the mines.

Katniss is also in greater danger than she ever has been. Her act of rebellion saved her life, but it also made her a target. She knows that Snow is watching her and sees her as a symbol of hope for the revolution, which cannot be tolerated. She put her entire family and loved ones in danger.

It takes Katniss some time to really understand her role in the rebellion. At first she wears the mockingjay pin because it’s a gift that reminds her of home. She had no idea that it was the secret symbol of the rebellion. By the end of Catching Fire, it dawns on her just how important she is.

“The bird, the pin, the song, the berries, the watch, the cracker, the dress that burst into flames. I am the mockingjay. (Ch. 27, p. 386)

As an inspiration to the masses, Katniss is very valuable. She was rescued because she is so important as a symbol. She needs to determine how to incorporate this into her new identity.